Homeland Security

The Brazos Valley Council of Governments Homeland Security Program assists local governments with first responder preparedness. We work closely with the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM), Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX), Texas Office of Homeland Security, and the local jurisdictions to support the State Homeland Security Grant Program. We ensure that all local governments in the Brazos Valley have complete and up-to-date emergency management plans, mutual aid agreements and we coordinate training provided through the Department of Homeland Security.

Homeland Security Grant Program

The Brazos Valley Council of Governments works with the local jurisdictions in the management of Homeland Security Grants. We help to ensure that all jurisdictions in the Brazos Valley maintain eligibility for the Homeland Security Grant Program as well as assist in the procurement of equipment through the State Homeland Security Grant Program. Our Homeland Security Advisory Committee, who is made up of public safety representatives throughout the region, makes funding recommendations for the grants.

NIMS

In September 2004, when the Secretary of Homeland Security sent a letter to the nation’s governors, he outlined a series of steps that must be taken and actions that should be taken to become compliant with the National Incident Management System (NIMS).Specifically the letter said that state territorial, tribal and local level jurisdictions should support NIMS implementation by completing the NIMS awareness course: National Incident Management System, An Introduction – IS 700. This independent study course explains the purpose, principles, key components and benefits of NIMS.